Optional Secondary Essays

[Thunder Thighs]

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Yo,

I've been working on some secondaries and noticed list essays as optional. For example wash u has both essays as optional from previous years.

Is there a consensus on whether it's preferred to do them or not? Anyone accepted that did/didn't do them want to chime in.

Thanks,

Thunder Thighs

 

[Thunder Thighs]

Also while I'm at it, how long is usually given to fill out secondaries? I feel like I'd need at least a few weeks after getting it.

 

[SpoiledMilk]

See @LizzyM post #9 Optional App Essay: Unique Circumstances/Life Experiences Pertinent to App. for your answer to #1.

Generally, best practice is to turn the 2nds around within 2-3 weeks.

 

[Thunder Thighs]

See @LizzyM post #9 Optional App Essay: Unique Circumstances/Life Experiences Pertinent to App. for your answer to #1.

Generally, best practice is to turn the 2nds around within 2-3 weeks.

"Describe a time or situation where you have been unsuccessful or failed. (optional)"

Do you think this essay is the same as the one you linked me to? Are they really just trying to give a space for people to describe difficult life circumstances?

 

[SpoiledMilk]

I took LizzyM's general idea to be that if you don't meet the premise of the question, don't try to BS it.

Let's wait for @LizzyM perspective on your question...

 

[AllBleedingStops]

optional

"optional"

Is there a consensus on whether it's preferred to do them or not?

I would do them to give the people evaluating me every opportunity to learn something about me.

 

[gyngyn]

I have seen optional essays go sideways more often than not.

 

[freedoctor17]

From what I've seen from a couple searches you should only do them if you have something really urgent you weren't able to share elsewhere